During more than three decades as a Pine Bluff police officer and court bailiff, Cleddie ‘Chief” Shock often met people at their worst.

Despite his quiet demeanor, however, it’s said that Shock’s Christian character was so prevalent that even when arresting someone or interacting with a defendant, he could quickly relieve their tension and make a friend.

“Love poured out of him,” Canaan Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Vick McGehee said at the late police chief’s funeral Wednesday at Cranford Funeral Home.

Shock, who served on the Jefferson County Quorum Court as the District 8 justice of the peace since 1995, died March 3 after a long illness. He was 87.

“Cleddie’s life was love in action,” McGehee said. “He was a loving family man and friend, and he’ll be remembered for the kindness and love he displayed.

“Cleddie’s spirit truly lives, and the things he stood for live on, too.”

Shock’s fellow past-and-present JPs listened with a large crowd that included elected officials, current law enforcement officers, and a few police retirees who had worked with Shock.

County Judge Mike Holcomb described Shock as “a great friend and a great man.”

Holcomb said Shock’s long-time and consistent efforts in aiding others made Shock “a true public servant.”

“When there was a task before him, Cleddie worked to get it done,” Holcomb said, adding that Shock always aimed at “doing his best.”

“He was a mentor to me,” the judge said before reading a memorial proclamation in which Holcomb praised Shock for his public service achievements.

Noting that after his 23-year police career, Shock also retired as director of security at the former Boys Training School and as Circuit Judge H.A. Taylor’s bailiff in Pine Bluff, Holcomb said Shock’s death represented the JP’s “final retirement.”

“I have no doubt that he’s retired to Heaven,” Holcomb said of Shock. “I have no doubt of his salvation.”

He is survived by his wife, Margaret L. Keeth Shock; son, Chuck Shock; daughter, Dianne Vilches; three grandsons and four great grandchildren.